Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A bicameral legislature refers to a legislative body that consists of two separate chambers or houses. This division allows for checks and balances within the lawmaking process.
Related terms
Upper House: Also known as the 'Senate' or 'House of Lords,' this is one chamber within a bicameral legislature that often represents states/regions or appointed officials rather than being directly elected by the people.
Lower House: Also known as the 'House of Representatives' or 'House of Commons,' this is another chamber within a bicameral legislature that typically represents the general population and is directly elected by the people.
A term used in some countries, such as the United States, to refer to their bicameral legislature consisting of an upper house (Senate) and a lower house (House of Representatives).